Spain opens new probe of ex-PM Zapatero over €1.3 million in jewelry
What's new: Investigators are examining possible tax fraud and smuggling before his court testimony on June 17 and 18.
A Spanish High Court judge opened a separate investigation into former Prime Minister José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero after police found jewelry worth about €1.3 million during a May 19 search of his office in Madrid. Judge José Luis Calama said the items lacked documented proof of origin, customs paperwork or evidence that import duties were paid, raising possible tax evasion and smuggling offenses. The search came as Zapatero faces a broader corruption case tied to alleged influence peddling and money laundering linked to a 2021 state bailout for airline Plus Ultra. Zapatero, prime minister from 2004 to 2011, has denied wrongdoing. His spokesperson, Luis Arroyo, said he would address the jewelry issue before the judge. He is due to testify on June 17 and 18.